35.059 BF727a

Metzneria aprilella

(Herrich-Schäffer, 1854)

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Wingspan c. 17mm.

Although only recognised as a British species in 1981, there are older records which were perhaps wrongly attributed to M. neruopterella.

It occurs sporadically in south and south-east England, but also occurs in South Yorkshire and may be overlooked elsewhere.

Inhabiting waste ground and grassy habitats on chalk or limestone, the adults fly from May to August and are attracted to light.

The larva feeds on greater knapweed (Centaurea scabiosa), inside the seedhead consuming the seeds.